Henry Lake Camp
Henry Lake Camp
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Camping fees vary by location and/or activity, but no specific fees are mentioned for Henry Lake Camp.
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$0.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
ProviderAbout this campground
Tucked away in the heart of Ottawa National Forest, Henry Lake Camp offers an authentic escape into Michigan's wild Upper Peninsula. This intimate campground features just 11 thoughtfully spaced sites, where morning mist dances across the lake and the only sounds are loons calling and wind whispering through ancient pines. For those seeking genuine solitude and unspoiled natural beauty, this rustic retreat delivers an experience that feels worlds away from civilization.
Henry Lake Camp provides rustic camping opportunities with minimal facilities. It is primarily geared towards tent camping and small groups.
Weather and SeasonsHenry Lake Camp embraces the dramatic moods of Michigan's northwoods weather. Early season visitors should come prepared for crisp conditions—recent weeks have seen temperatures hovering between 32-41°F with occasional snow dustings that transform the landscape into a winter wonderland. The dry air and variable conditions create stunning atmospheric effects over the lake, from ethereal morning fog to crystal-clear starlit nights.
ElevationPerched at a commanding elevation along the ridge above Henry Lake, the campground offers spectacular vantage points where the forest canopy opens to reveal sweeping water views. This elevated position not only provides breathtaking sunrise and sunset opportunities but also catches cooling breezes that flow across the lake on warm summer days.
Natural Features and SceneryA cathedral of towering trees creates natural privacy screens between campsites, while winding paths lead down to Henry Lake's pristine shoreline. The dense forest ecosystem surrounds visitors in a living tapestry of maple, birch, and pine, where filtered sunlight creates an ever-changing play of shadows throughout the day. Early risers are often rewarded with wildlife sightings—from white-tailed deer picking their way to the water's edge to great blue herons fishing in the shallows.
Geological RegionHenry Lake Camp sits within the vast Ottawa National Forest, a million-acre wilderness that represents one of the last great undeveloped forests in the Midwest. This rugged landscape, sculpted by ancient glaciers and nurtured by centuries of undisturbed growth, showcases the raw beauty of Michigan's Upper Peninsula. The relatively isolated setting around Henry Lake preserves an ecosystem where nature still reigns supreme, offering visitors a glimpse into what much of North America looked like before modern development.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground features an accessible fishing platform and easy access via forest roads. However, no other accessibility features are explicitly mentioned.
Sites SizeThe sites are described as "nicely spaced and screened."
Sites PrivacyThe sites are noted for their high level of privacy, with trees between the campsites.
Total Campsites11 campsites
Recommended CampsitesConsider sites #4 and #5 for direct access to the boat launch. Other sites are more isolated but still provide lake views.
Best CampsitesSites #4 and #5 are highlighted for their shared access to a boat launch.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Groups
No information is provided about group sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of 11 rustic campsites, some of which are more secluded with natural tree cover providing privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov mobile app or Scan & Pay feature on-site.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served. Payment must be made on-site using the Recreation.gov app if available.
Cancellation PolicyReservations are subject to a $10 cancellation fee, and late cancellations incur additional charges including forfeiting the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Henry Lake Camp offers a tranquil setting for outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. The lake is described as 'beautiful,' especially during the fall, and the secluded nature of the campground enhances the experience of observing nature.
Fishing
Fishing is supported with an accessible fishing platform available. The lake is described positively, and fishing opportunities are likely to be a draw for visitors.Boating
Boating is supported with a boat landing. However, one reviewer noted that only sites #4 and #5 have direct boat launch access, while other sites require using the central boat launch.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is possible due to the campground's secluded location and natural surroundings.Winter Activities
No specific information is provided about winter activities.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking are possible, but limitations exist. Sites #4 and #5 share a boat launch suitable for kayaking.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted in designated fire rings; visitors are expected to adhere to any seasonal fire restrictions.
Hazards
General hazardsVisitors should be aware of potential wildlife encounters, including bears. Bear poles are provided for food storage.
Weather forecast
36
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 96%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 8.4 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Good to know
Trash and recyclingNo specific information is provided regarding trash and recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to Henry Lake, with a fishing pier and boat landing accessible to visitors.
Common complaintsThe campground does not offer potable water at this time, requiring visitors to bring their own.
Campground Map
Camper Reviews
4.3
6 reviews
Henry Lake Camp is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews consistently highlight the campground's tranquility, privacy, and rustic charm. It is appreciated for its clean facilities, beautiful lake views, and seclusion, making it ideal for a peaceful getaway.
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the quiet and remote location, clean and well-maintained vault toilets, and the natural beauty of the lake. The campground's rustic charm and privacy between sites are commonly...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
One reviewer noted the lack of potable water on-site. Another mentioned that kayaking access is limited to certain sites (#4 and #5).
Based on 6 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors should bring their own potable water as there is no water pump available. They should also be prepared for a first-come, first-served basis for campsite selection. Downloading the...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Fall is highlighted as an especially beautiful time to visit, with vivid descriptions of the lake and surrounding foliage. The campground is noted to be less crowded during this season.
Based on 6 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Eleven nicely spaced and screened rustic campsites, boat access site, and accessible fishing platform border an otherwise undeveloped and relatively isolated lake.' - Jerry Wuorenmaa
2. 'Nice...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites #4 and #5 share a boat launch, making them ideal for kayaking enthusiasts. These sites stand out as unique due to their direct access to the water.
Based on 6 reviewsAccessibility Features
The accessible fishing platform is noted, but no other specific accessibility features are mentioned in reviews.
Based on 6 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews explicitly mention pet policies or experiences with pets at the campground.
Based on 6 reviewsLast updated November 24, 2025
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